Gems uncovered in Dobbie’s mansion

Deborah Punshon

The owner of this exceptional Larbert property thinks it’s one of the best period houses in the area.

Despite her obvious bias, it’s difficult to disagree.

Because, if you are in the market for a house with all the space, character and heritage you could hope for, Hopedale should be top of your list.

Built in 1895, the first family to own this house was one of the most illustrious in the town.

George Dobbie, younger brother of ironfounder Major Robert Dobbie who gifted the community the famous hall, lived here until he died, with his family continuing to hold the property until the mid 1950s.

This history seems to have inspired the current owners to sympathetically update this property, uncovering a wealth of period gems in the past 10 years that had been previously been hidden.

Now, when you look inside this six-bedroom home, you can see all its glorious features including original doors, wooden floors, stained glass windows, six fireplaces, Victorian tiles and plasterwork cornicing.

But the extensive refurbishment has not only enhanced its character but has turned it into a stunning, comfortable home.

Four garages and a gym have been added, the kitchen and casual dining area has been completely re-fitted, and the substantial gardens have been landscaped and filled with hundreds of plants.

The owner said: “We have a big family but everyone always has their own space in this house. The flexible layout is great and the house is set up to easily run a business from home, which we do. The house and grounds are very private, totally enclosed and secure. And, it takes less than five minutes walk to the train station.”